Ban on commercial pot set for Douglas County

PARKER, Colo. — While Coloradans voted to legalize marijuana in November, voters in Douglas County have voted against marijuana legalization measures four times in a row.

The last vote was enough for the county’s three commissioners to decide to ban any sale, processing or growing of marijuana, in the south-suburban county.

“We heard what voters are telling us,” said Commissioner Jack Hilbert. “We are a highly educated, affluent, and kid-friendly county which has no need for tax benefits that can be realized from the sale of pot.”

A quick on-the-street survey outside the 20-mile AMC seemed to indicate people were split on the issue… some saying it’s the law which people voted for.

The lobbyist for marijuana rights, Joe Megysey, said DugCo has every right under Amendment 64 to ban retail outlets, but the law also gives people living in the county to possess less than one ounce and grow up to six plants on their property — if secured — and kept away from the general public.

Other counties are looking at following suit with Douglas County, but others say they will welcome and can use taxes which will be generated by the new revenue stream.

At any time residents can change their minds if so inclined, but changes will only come with another vote of the people.